The hugely popular Welsh Varsity event will make a triumphant return to the Welsh capital on Wednesday 9 April 2025, bringing the fiercest university rivalry back to Cardiff.

Following a successful year in Swansea in 2024, the Welsh capital is gearing up for an action-packed day of sport, passion and unforgettable moments. 

Welsh Varsity represents one of the biggest days in the student calendar, bringing together more than 10,000 students from Cardiff University and Swansea University to cheer on their teams in this festival of sport. 

Varsity has been ever-present on the sporting calendar for both universities since it began in 1997, originating as a men’s rugby fixture and expanding into the sporting showpiece that it is today. 

More than 30 teams will compete for the prestigious Varsity shield and cup. Cardiff retained the shield in 2024 and are looking to keep it on home ground for another year. In the men’s rugby game, Swansea will be looking to repeat their performance, while Cardiff women’s rugby will be looking to defend their victory from last year.  

Georgia Spry, VP Sports and AU President at Cardiff University, said: “Welsh Varsity is one of the most anticipated days in the student calendar and it comes with a huge sense of pride for all our Cardiff student athletes and supporters. In 2024, Team Cardiff battled hard on Swansea's turf to claim victory and take home the Welsh Varsity Shield! This year, the competition comes to Cardiff and our players are putting in the hard work to be prepped and ready to take on Swansea's best. The day always brings a huge sense of camaraderie with unwavering support towards our fabulous student athletes.”

Cameron Messetter, Sports Officer for Swansea, said: “The Swansea vs Cardiff rivalry is unmatched and every year our students turn out in their thousands to support our teams. This year, the Green and White army will be travelling to the capital, looking for a strong performance to retain the cup and regain the shield. Every Swansea player is training hard to deliver results in their sport and we couldn’t be prouder of them. Make sure you’re joining us to cheer them on in Cardiff on the 9 April!”  

The action will unfold across iconic Cardiff venues including Cardiff Arms Park, Sophia Gardens Cricket Ground and Sport Wales. As always, the tournament will culminate with the Women’s and Men’s rugby fixtures at Cardiff Arms Park, one of the highlights of the day. 

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